Deep Creek Hot Springs Hike #2!! (Clothing Optional)

Use this link for the trail start point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kASxQu8UzZeiA2G96

Hi all! We will be hiking to Deep Creek Hot Springs to enjoy the warm water and beautiful scenery. The hot springs are nature's jacuzzis, perfect for a crisp spring day. Best of all, you can enjoy them in whatever attire you choose, including your birthday suit!

Difficulty for inexperienced hikers: HARD

Difficulty for experienced hikers: Moderate

I hosted a hike in early April and had so much fun! The hike was beautiful and soaking in the hot springs was quite relaxing and rewarding. I only knew 4 of the 17 other hikers beforehand but I left feeling so much camaraderie with everyone and have been lucky enough to run into some of my new friends at other social events. 10/10 want to do again so here we go!

There are two trails to the hot springs. Although the Bowen Ranch trail is better known, I will be leading the hike from the Bradford Ridge path, which we did last time. The drive up the mountain is gorgeous, the parking is free, and most importantly, we won't have to tread through the freezing creek to get to the springs!

Now, that being said, I have never done the Bowen Ranch trail but it is shorter and I've heard it is easier, so if anyone wants to coordinate folks who want to hike from that side, I'm totally open to having two groups starting at the different trailheads.

The trail is 2.5 miles there, 2.5 back. There is one part that is quite steep and the way back goes uphill.

Important note: IF YOU ARE NOT AN EXPERIENCED HIKER OR IN GOOD SHAPE, THIS HIKE IS HARD!!

It may not be a good hike for you if you aren't confident in your physical abilities. If you are experienced/in shape, it is a more moderately difficult hike, but if you're up for an adventure it is sooo worthwhile! Regardless, take care of yourself and hike at your own risk.

Here's the tentative itinerary:

11am: meet at the trailhead, start hiking

12:30pm-ish: arrive at the hot springs. Snack, soak, and socialize.

4pm-ish: hike back

Please bring:

Drinking water (I recommend at least 2 liters, there are no drinking water sources at the springs)

Lunch

Snacks

A towel

Sunscreen

Weather-appropriate clothes for the hike

Good hiking/walking shoes

Optional: Swimwear. Those of us going nude can skip this step

Other things to keep in mind:

Don't go underwater and definitely don't drink the spring water! The amoebas won't be happy.

Despite the nudity at the springs, it is still family-friendly. Please be respectful.

No glass bottles please!

Alright, with all that out of the way, I can't wait to hike with you guys and enjoy soaking in the springs once again. If you missed the last hike, now's your chance before the summer heats up!